Non-fungible token (NFT) marketplace OpenSea is set to launch a new version of its platform, as announced by CEO Devin Finzer on November 4.
In a post on X (Twitter), Finzer wrote, “We’ve been quietly cooking at @opensea,” adding that the team had to “reimagine everything” and rebuild the platform “from the ground up.”
While details of the new platform remain limited, OpenSea plans to make it available to users in December, with a waitlist already open. More than 233,000 wallets have already signed up so far.
Early user feedback from those with beta access has highlighted new features like a “Leaderboard” and “Reward” section, suggesting that OpenSea is incorporating gamified elements and incentives into the platform.
The announcement follows a long-term strategy that Finzer has referenced since late 2023, called “OpenSea 2.0.” This initiative aims to enhance security and offer a more personalized user experience.
To support these changes, OpenSea underwent a significant restructuring, which included a workforce reduction of up to 50%. This was the company’s second major round of layoffs; in July 2022, OpenSea had already cut about 20% of its staff, leaving it with approximately 200 employees.
OpenSea has faced mounting challenges over the past year. Following the restructuring, investment firm Coatue Management reduced its stake in the company by nearly 90%, which significantly impacted OpenSea’s valuation.
In May 2024, OpenSea’s trading volume dropped to levels not seen since April 2021, reflecting a cooling interest in NFTs. Additionally, regulatory issues have increased, with the SEC sending a Wells notice to OpenSea in August, indicating its view that NFTs on the platform may qualify as securities. In September, two users filed a class-action lawsuit, claiming OpenSea sold unregistered securities.
In response to these legal pressures, Finzer has been vocal in opposing the SEC’s stance. He committed $5 million to support affected NFT creators and, in September, collaborated with Coinbase to establish a $6 million legal defense fund. This fund, in collaboration with a16zcrypto and several law firms, offers legal assistance to creators navigating regulatory challenges in the NFT market.
